Most of us have different views of what a career in international affairs really means, state dinners, cocktail parties, etc., but the reality is that a career in international affairs includes a wide range of specialties within the private, non-profit, and government fields. Many schools such as The New School, a premier New York University, offer career counseling services to students in the international affairs graduate programs to help them understand potential career paths available.
[This is a series of three explaining possible careers in International Affairs. For Private and Non-Profit click on the respective titles.]
International Affairs Careers – Federal Government
One of the most popular international affairs career paths is working for the State Department as a diplomat or in a similar capacity. Although Foreign Service offers a rewarding career, the examination and selection process makes it extremely difficult to get into. The State Department welcomes candidates from all walks of life; however those possessing an international relations degree or an international affairs degree from an accredited university will receive priority consideration. Other key considerations include a strong knowledge of American history and proficiency in one or more foreign languages.
Although Foreign Affairs within the State Department may be a popular career choice for most, many government agencies employ individuals who work in the international relations field, for example Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, and Department of Defense, to name just a few. Below you’ll find a profile of jobs offered by the aforementioned agencies.
- Department of Defense – Intelligence Officer
Intelligence Officers with the DIA are responsible for producing intelligence assessments and reports on particular countries and regions of the world. An intelligence officer will produce analysis focusing on various aspects of the country’s capabilities, including but not limited to military, political, security, economy, foreign relations, etc. An Intelligence Officer at the Department of Defense is expected to earn anywhere between $39,000 and $75,000 per year.
- US Department of State – Foreign Affairs Officer
Foreign Affairs Officers are responsible for carrying out United States diplomatic missions abroad—many in developing countries. They interface with the local populace, foreign press, and government representatives in order to promote US relations. They are also responsible for advising senior foreign affairs officers and preparing briefing materials. An expected salary for a Foreign Affairs Officer is anywhere between $89,000 and $115,000 per year.
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